Dave M

I first came to Sairee Cottage a couple of years ago, I did so on the positive recommendations and reviews found online and on their incredible website, which gave all the information you need to be confident that you have made the right choice by joining them on this amazing little piece of paradise, Koh Tao.

Back then it didn’t take me long to decide that I wanted to change my life forever, I went from thinking I was just a Diver, to soon realising this could actually be life changing. With the constant support of this incredible team, it truly was.

I knew Sairee Cottage Diving Koh Tao, was THE dive centre that has it all, from the dive shop itself and the always attentive staff, the amazing pool & pool bar and of course the classrooms where we spent many long days studying in comfort and in a relaxed manner which made the whole experience of completing the IDC very, very special.

As for the course itself, of which I have attended many courses in my lifetime, not one has come close to this. This is due to SCD’s incredible Course Director Marcel Van Den Berg.

Marcel’s experience, energy, passion and love for diving not to mention his personally related stories he has to tell is intoxicating. The effort he puts into his lectures makes you listen and learn, way and above what you need, to prepare you for the goal which of course is the PADI IE. He is always on hand, before and after class, morning, noon or night to answer any issues or concerns you have and that’s why you know you are in the best hands possible and gives you the confidence to not only become a PADI Instructor but be an amazing instructor where ever this world takes you and also to become a better person within yourself. He is truly inspirational and I cannot wait to begin this new journey in my life knowing I have been taught by the best, who has given me the confidence I need to be a success in the wonderful world of Professional Diving.

In the words of the man himself, one last thing……
Special mentions also go out to Maddy Baker on the Divemaster Training Course at Sairee Cottage Diving, for her incredible mentorship and training getting me through DMT being fully prepared and ready for the next step with Marcel on the IDC. Also, to Nicolas Sleutelaar aka Flav and Martin Walsh who assisted Marcel during the course. All of their knowledge and passion throughout the course was inspirational and I thank you for being a part my journey so far.